Medicine and Science from The BMJ Starvation in Gaza is a multi-generational disaster
Sep 9, 2025
Jocalyn Clark, the International editor at The BMJ, discusses the dire humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the generational impact of starvation. The conversation explores the arms industry's role as a commercial determinant of health, urging a reevaluation of its effects on public well-being. Clark also highlights the need for preventive health measures in general practice to address the complex dynamics of warfare and welfare. The podcast reveals chilling insights into the long-lasting health ramifications of malnutrition in conflict zones.
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Arms Industry As A Commercial Health Determinant
- The arms industry uses corporate tactics (lobbying, media shaping, revolving doors) to normalise huge defence spending.
- This diverts resources and attention from health and education, creating a trade-off between profit and population wellbeing.
Demand A Renewed Global Peace Dividend
- Renew support for a global peace dividend to protect health and education spending while investing in defence.
- Ask governments and health journals to scrutinise defence spending trade-offs and back peaceful investments.
Money Drives Influence And Policy Capture
- The global military budget and top arms companies' revenues create strong incentives to expand markets and influence policy.
- This fosters regulatory capture and media influence that steer public narratives toward more armament.
